Machine Operator

Job Title: Machine Operator

Job Description

The Machine Operator safely and efficiently operates large-scale plastics processing equipment, including granulators, shredders, color systems, wet sorter systems, and extruders. This role focuses on material handling, machine operation, and quality control to ensure a consistent, high-quality product while maintaining a clean, organized, and safety-focused work area.

Responsibilities

• Operate production machines such as granulators, shredders, color systems, wet sorter systems, and extruders in a safe and efficient manner.
• Understand, follow, and apply all instructions from the Run Instruction Sheet (RIS), including system setup, operation, shutdown, troubleshooting, cleaning, and basic maintenance.
• Take regular and accurate product samples as directed by the RIS and systematically probe boxes, reporting any issues or irregularities to lab personnel and supervisors.
• Thoroughly clean boxes, lids, and skids before use, inspect packaging for damage, and remove any substandard materials from circulation.
• Complete the Run Number Time Log at the end of each shift with clear and legible handwriting so the next operator can easily understand the information.
• Update the RIS as needed and communicate changes or important information to the supervisor in a timely manner.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area throughout the shift, following all housekeeping and safety standards.
• Maintain and accurately complete production logs and ledgers, including inbound, outbound, reject, and run records, as well as quality control documentation.
• Prepare and complete Work in Process (WIP) and Ready for Sale (RFS) tags accurately and legibly.
• Compute weights using correct gross, tare, and net figures, and weigh materials in boxes and hoppers, recording all weights in the appropriate locations.
• Calculate pounds per hour processed during runs and compute percentages to document run conditions and productivity standards.
• Load and unload materials using a sit-down forklift or pallet jack and place materials into proper inventory locations.
• Become certified to operate a forklift and aerial lift as needed and use this equipment to access upper parts of systems to troubleshoot and clear jams.
• Assist with training new associates on machine operation, safety procedures, and production processes.
• Prepare boxes for material by placing labels in the correct locations and removing any extra or incorrect labels.
• Participate actively in shift meetings and training sessions to stay current on procedures, safety requirements, and production goals.
• Perform quality checks on materials and finished products to ensure they meet standards and report any defects or issues promptly.
• Support general production and material handling tasks as needed to keep operations running smoothly.
• Troubleshoot issues in the manufacturing process by identifying problems, proposing solutions, and working with the team to restore optimal operation.

Essential Skills

• Manufacturing experience working around machines preferred but not required, with exposure to a production or general labor environment.
• Demonstrated capacity to perform basic mathematical computations, including addition, subtraction, weight calculations, and calculating percentages.
• Clear, legible handwriting for accurately completing paper logs, records, and notes for subsequent operators.
• Experience troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment with a strong problem-solving mindset.
• Sit-down forklift experience, including loading, unloading, and moving materials safely.
• Ability to become certified on a forklift and aerial lift and work at heights up to approximately 25 feet while wearing a harness.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with large industrial machinery and equipment.
• Ability to stand for the duration of the shift, apart from scheduled breaks.
• Ability to lift up to 65 pounds (not on a repetitive basis).
• Comfort working in an environment with dust and noise while using required hearing and eye protection.
• Willingness and ability to work mandated Saturdays on occasion if business needs require it.
• Ownership of steel-toed or composite-toed shoes or boots suitable for a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to follow detailed written instructions such as Run Instruction Sheets and production logs.
• Strong attention to detail for quality checks, labeling, and documentation.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality for assigned shifts.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in plastics manufacturing, including injection molding or extrusion, is a plus.
• Experience in machine operation, general production, or material handling in a manufacturing setting.
• Familiarity with extrusion machines and related equipment.
• Experience performing quality checks and documenting production and quality data.
• General mechanical skills and comfort with basic troubleshooting on production equipment.
• Ability to compute and track productivity metrics such as pounds per hour and run percentages.
• Experience working in a traditional manufacturing or recycling environment with large systems and conveyors.
• Comfort participating in team-based training and assisting new associates with onboarding.
• Strong communication skills to report issues, share updates, and collaborate with supervisors and lab personnel.

Why Work Here?

Employees join a stable, rapidly growing manufacturing facility that is investing in additional shifts and new opportunities for advancement. Team members benefit from a comprehensive benefits package that can include medical, prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life and AD&D insurance, disability coverage, an employee assistance program, voluntary benefits, and other valuable extras. The culture rewards initiative and problem-solving, with clear pathways to move into leadership roles over time. The environment emphasizes safety, training, and continuous improvement, allowing motivated individuals to build a long-term career with growing responsibility and compensation.

Work Environment

This role is based in a traditional manufacturing facility that processes and recycles plastics using large, multi-story systems designed to receive and separate materials. The plant operates three primary shifts: 1st shift from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday; 2nd shift from 3:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., Monday through Friday; and 3rd shift from 11:30 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., Sunday night through Thursday night. The environment includes some dust and noise, so hearing and eye protection is required at all times on the production floor. Employees frequently climb stairs or use an aerial lift to access upper parts of the systems for troubleshooting and clearing jams. Temperatures can be hot near certain machines during the summer and comfortable to cool in the winter. Dock-related tasks may require spending extended time along the outer wall of the facility to load and unload trucks. The dress code prioritizes safety: clothing must not be excessively baggy or restrictive, and garments with large holes, rips, or tears are not permitted. Tank tops, low-cut or midriff shirts, shorts, and sagging pants are not allowed; pants must fit at the waist, and a belt should be worn if needed. Sleeveless shirts are acceptable. Steel or composite toe shoes or boots are required. Jewelry or items that dangle from the neck, wrists, or hands are not permitted, and long hair must be secured to prevent it from dangling. Hoodies or jackets with loose drawstrings are not allowed around machinery. Employees must maintain good personal hygiene. For safety reasons, cell phones and smart watches are not allowed on the production floor or on forklifts and must be stored in lockers or vehicles during work.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Indianapolis, IN.

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $21.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Indianapolis,IN.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 30, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.